SMS proliferation expected to hit 7 trillion in 2011

by Steven Mostyn - Dec 31 2010, 08:01

Prepare for abject disappointment if you’re currently hoping 2011 will usher in a decline related to the associated annoyances and potential dangers of SMS messaging—because apparently it’s only going to get worse.

Moreover, there’s no end in sight when it comes to easily distracted texters barrelling headlong into fellow sidewalk users, ruining cinema experiences with their constantly illuminated screens, or causing fatal accidents from behind the wheel.

According to ABI Research, the popularity of texting is only set to grow, with worldwide usage expected to hit a whopping 7.0 trillion (that’s trillion) in 2011 across a total of 4.2 billion mobile subscribers.

“Mobile messaging has distinct advantages for companies communication with their customers,” noted Practice director Neil Strother.

“It is universal, cost-effective and reliable, and most people have their phones with them and switched on most of the time,” he added.

The research report claims the sudden upsurge is likely because quick and convenient messaging is becoming “more prevalent among younger subscribers” as they continue to replace older mobile phone users.

The continuing rise of SMS is also attributed to falling delivery costs driven by competition from those offering email, MMS and Instant Messaging services, according to ABI.

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